Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Learn by Doing. Lead by Innovating.
📍 San Luis Obispo, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #55 in United States · QS World #1201 · THE World #801
Quick Facts about Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
- Type: Public
- Students: 22,932
- International: 1%
- Campus: Suburban
- Tuition: From $32,388/year
- Language: English, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Spanish
- Intakes: September
About Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Academics
Cal Poly offers over 150 undergraduate majors and minors, and more than 50 graduate programs across six colleges: Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences; Architecture and Environmental Design; Orfalea College of Business; Engineering; Liberal Arts; and Bailey College of Science and Mathematics. The College of Engineering is particularly notable, ranking 8th nationally among undergraduate engineering schools where doctorates are not offered, and its Aerospace Engineering and Civil Engineering programs are highly rated. Popular undergraduate concentrations include Business Administration & Management, Mechanical Engineering, and Computer Science.
International Students
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo has a diverse student body, with international students making up approximately 1% to 2.2% of the total enrollment. The university attracts students globally, with a growing international population. While specific English-taught programs for international students are not explicitly detailed as separate from the general curriculum, the university's standard instruction is in English, and non-native English speakers typically need to provide proof of English proficiency for admission. Cal Poly offers numerous cultural organizations and diversity programs to support cultural integration.
Campus & Location
Cal Poly's campus is situated in San Luis Obispo, a classic college town on California's Central Coast, roughly equidistant from Los Angeles and San Francisco. The university boasts one of the largest campuses in the U.S., featuring cutting-edge labs, hands-on learning facilities, and distinct residential communities. San Luis Obispo itself offers a vibrant community with access to wine regions, beaches, and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Career Outcomes
Cal Poly graduates demonstrate strong career outcomes, with 91% employed or pursuing graduate degrees. The university's "Learn by Doing" philosophy emphasizes practical skills, making graduates highly sought after by employers. Career Services conducts an annual Graduate Status Report, providing data on employment and graduate school admissions. Graduates in engineering and computer sciences often report high early career earnings, and major employers include companies like Apple, Boeing, Google, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman. The Cal Poly Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE) fosters a strong startup culture, offering programs like the Summer Accelerator and an Incubator to support student and community ventures.
Information for International Students at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in San Luis Obispo, United States welcomes international students, with 1% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 1% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Spanish
Admissions Requirements for Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 80
- Duolingo minimum: 115
- GPA minimum: 4.12
- GRE required
- Application fee: $70
- Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)
- Application deadline: November 30
Programs at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo (28 programs)
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo offers 28 programs across Bachelor, Master levels.
Bachelor Programs (17)
- Anthropology and Geography (BS) — English · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Science program explores human societies, cultures, and their spatial distribution across the globe. Graduates develop strong analytical and research skills, preparing them for careers in cultural resource management, urban planning, and international development.
Field: Social Sciences - Agricultural Communication (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Science program focuses on effective communication strategies within the agricultural and food industries. Students learn to convey complex agricultural information to diverse audiences, leading to careers in public relations, journalism, and marketing for agricultural organizations.
Field: Agriculture - Architecture (BArch) — English · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Architecture program provides a comprehensive education in architectural design, theory, and practice. Students develop skills in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing built environments, leading to careers as licensed architects, urban designers, and architectural consultants.
Field: Architecture - Agricultural Business (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Science program combines business principles with agricultural science, preparing students for management, marketing, and finance roles within the agricultural sector. Graduates can pursue careers in agribusiness, food production, and agricultural policy.
Field: Agriculture - Agricultural Systems Management (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Science program integrates engineering, technology, and business management within agricultural contexts. Students learn to optimize agricultural operations and systems, leading to careers in farm management, agricultural technology, and supply chain logistics.
Field: Agriculture - Art and Design (BFA) — English · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Fine Arts program offers intensive study in various artistic disciplines, fostering creativity and technical skills in visual arts. Graduates pursue careers as artists, designers, illustrators, and art educators.
Field: Arts - Animal Science (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Science program focuses on the biology, care, and production of livestock and other animals. Graduates can pursue careers in veterinary medicine, animal breeding, animal nutrition, and livestock management.
Field: Agriculture - Civil Engineering (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Science program focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and water systems. Graduates are prepared for careers in civil engineering, construction management, and public works.
Field: Engineering - City and Regional Planning (BS) — English · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Science program focuses on the planning and design of sustainable communities and regions. Students learn about land use, transportation, environmental planning, and urban policy, leading to careers in urban planning, community development, and public administration.
Field: Urban Planning - Construction Management (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Science program focuses on the planning, execution, and oversight of construction projects. Students learn about project management, cost control, safety, and sustainable construction practices, leading to careers as construction managers, project engineers, and estimators.
Field: Construction - Agricultural Science (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Science program provides a broad understanding of agricultural principles, including crop production, soil science, and animal husbandry. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in farming, agricultural research, and extension services.
Field: Agriculture - Chemistry (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Science program provides a strong foundation in chemical principles, laboratory techniques, and scientific inquiry. Graduates are prepared for careers in chemical research, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and further graduate studies.
Field: Physical Sciences - Comparative Ethnic Studies (BA) — English · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Arts program examines the experiences, cultures, and histories of various ethnic groups, fostering a critical understanding of race and ethnicity in society. Graduates are prepared for careers in social justice, education, public policy, and community organizing.
Field: Humanities - Computer Engineering (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Science program integrates computer science and electrical engineering, focusing on the design and development of computer hardware and software systems. Graduates are prepared for careers in embedded systems, computer architecture, and software development.
Field: Engineering - Child Development (BS) — English · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Science program examines the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of children from infancy through adolescence. Graduates are prepared for careers in early childhood education, social work, child advocacy, and family services.
Field: Social Sciences - Computer Science (BS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Science program provides a comprehensive understanding of computing principles, algorithms, and software development. Graduates are highly sought after for careers in software engineering, data science, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.
Field: Computer Science - Communication Studies (BA) — English · Scholarship available
This Bachelor of Arts program explores various forms of human communication, including interpersonal, organizational, and mass communication. Graduates develop strong analytical and presentation skills, leading to careers in public relations, marketing, human resources, and media.
Field: Communication
Master Programs (11)
- Aerospace Engineering (MS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Master of Science program provides advanced study in aerospace engineering, focusing on specialized areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion, and spacecraft design. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in research and development within the aerospace industry.
Field: Engineering - Agriculture, Specialization in BioResource and Agricultural Systems (MS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Master of Science program focuses on the sustainable management of biological resources and agricultural systems. Graduates are prepared for careers in environmental management, agricultural policy, and sustainable development.
Field: Agriculture - Agriculture, Specialization in Dairy Products Technology (MS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Master of Science program focuses on the science and technology of dairy product processing, quality control, and innovation. Graduates are prepared for careers in dairy production, research, and food safety.
Field: Agriculture - Agriculture, Specialization in Animal Science (MS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Master of Science program offers advanced study in animal science, focusing on areas such as animal nutrition, genetics, and physiology. Graduates are prepared for research, management, and consulting roles in the animal agriculture industry.
Field: Agriculture - Architectural Engineering (MS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Master of Science program provides advanced study in architectural engineering, focusing on specialized areas such as structural analysis, building performance, and sustainable design. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in structural engineering, building design, and construction.
Field: Engineering - Agriculture, Specialization in Irrigation (MS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Master of Science program focuses on advanced irrigation techniques, water resource management, and agricultural water efficiency. Graduates are prepared for careers in water management, agricultural engineering, and sustainable agriculture.
Field: Agriculture - Agriculture, Specialization in Water Engineering (MS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Master of Science program focuses on the engineering principles applied to water resources in agricultural contexts, including irrigation systems and water quality. Graduates are prepared for careers in water resource management, agricultural engineering, and environmental consulting.
Field: Agriculture - Agriculture, Specialization in Crop Science (MS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Master of Science program provides advanced knowledge in crop production, plant breeding, and sustainable agricultural practices. Graduates are prepared for research, development, and management roles in the crop science industry.
Field: Agriculture - Agricultural Education (MAgEd) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Master of Agricultural Education program prepares individuals for leadership and teaching roles in agricultural education. Students develop advanced pedagogical skills and subject matter expertise, leading to careers as agricultural educators, extension specialists, and program coordinators.
Field: Agriculture - Agriculture, Specialization in Environmental Horticultural Science (MS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Master of Science program explores the scientific principles and practices of environmental horticulture, including landscape design, plant propagation, and sustainable urban ecosystems. Graduates are prepared for careers in horticulture, landscape management, and environmental consulting.
Field: Agriculture - Agriculture, Specialization in Plant Protection Science (MS) — English · STEM · Scholarship available
This Master of Science program provides advanced knowledge in the diagnosis, prevention, and management of plant diseases and pests. Graduates are prepared for careers in agricultural research, crop consulting, and integrated pest management.
Field: Agriculture
Scholarships & Tuition at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Annual tuition for international students: From $32,388/year
✅ Cal Poly San Luis Obispo offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
- National Ranking: #55 in United States
- QS World University Ranking: #1201
- Times Higher Education (THE): #801
- Ranking tier: Research University
Campus & Facilities at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Suburban
Key Highlights
- Learn by Doing philosophy
- Top-ranked engineering programs
- Beautiful Central Coast location
- Large, diverse campus
Accreditation
- WASC Senior College and University Commission
Notable Alumni
- John Madden
- "Weird Al" Yankovic
- Burt Rutan
- Ozzie Smith
- Devin Nunes
Frequently Asked Questions about Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
What is Cal Poly San Luis Obispo?
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo is a public university located in San Luis Obispo, United States. It has approximately 22,932 students, with 1% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo?
Tuition fees at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo for international students range from From $32,388/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Cal Poly San Luis Obispo?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 80. Duolingo minimum: 115. GPA minimum: 4.12. GRE required. Application fee: $70. Selectivity: Selective (20-40%). Application deadline: November 30.
What language are courses taught in at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo?
Courses at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo are taught in English and Chinese and French and German and Italian and Japanese and Russian and Spanish. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does Cal Poly San Luis Obispo offer?
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo offers 28 programs: 17 Bachelor's, 11 Master's, and 0 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Cal Poly San Luis Obispo ranked?
#55 in United States · QS World #1201 · THE World #801.
Does Cal Poly San Luis Obispo offer scholarships?
Yes, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Cal Poly San Luis Obispo provide visa support?
Yes, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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